Nathan & Lauren planned to get married in a small, intimate outdoor ceremony. They wanted the ceremony to reflect Nathan’s Native American heritage.

The Ojibwe tribe ceremony tradition requires couples to choose a sacred landmark for their wedding ceremony. It must be an outdoor ceremony. The couple chose the place in Muskego, WI; the sanctuary was surreal. The officiant was already there when I arrived, preparing for the ceremony, blessing the place, and turning on the bonfire. The ceremony took place under an arbor and at noon, as required. It included many beautiful rituals, prayers, sacred songs, pipe-smoking, wood burning, and aromatic plant igniting.

The bride and groom were covered in a beautiful handmade blanket to symbolize unity. Pipe smoking and the eagle song were essential to the ceremony. Due to its secrecy, I was asked not to take pictures during the performance of the eagle song. All their rituals are meant to cleanse the couple, and the pipe’s smoke is meant to carry their prayers to the Creator.

Tobacco was offered to all attendees to be ignited after the ceremony for blessing.

The bride wore a beautiful green gown, and the bridesmaids wore colorful dresses that looked great with the outdoor backdrop.

After the ceremony, the couple’s portrait session occurred at the exact location.

Wedding Dress: Torrid

Suit: JCPenney

Rentals: Top Choice Rentals

Dinner and speeches came after the session.

This wedding was published in Love.INC